December Rotunda Recessional

One of the University’s most symbolic traditions is the Rotunda Passage, which includes both a processional and recessional. Many students begin their lives at SMU by processing through the Rotunda of Dallas Hall to Opening Convocation held in McFarlin Auditorium, symbolizing their entrance to SMU.

At the end of their time at SMU, students will recess back through the Rotunda at the conclusion of the Baccalaureate Service held the evening before May Commencement. It is a symbolic departure from campus and out into their future as the newest members of the SMU Alumni family.

The Rotunda Passage also recognizes the importance of Dallas Hall to SMU’s campus life. Dallas Hall is the oldest building on campus. In 1915 when classes began, it housed all of the academic and administrative functions of the University. It is pictured on SMU’s seal and just as Dallas Hall is central to SMU, the Rotunda is at the very center of Dallas Hall.

Our Rotunda is the centerpiece of a magnificent three-story building that stands on the highest spot, or “hilltop,” of the land given by the citizens of Dallas to attract SMU to this city. It is fitting that Dallas Hall is named in honor of the generosity and vision of those citizens. It is appropriate one becomes part of the SMU community by marching through it to Opening Convocation.